Blockade heightens tensions in Malilla

There is anger on the streets at the Moroccan border of Spain’s north African enclave in Melilla. Activists have started a week-long blockade to prevent goods entering the Spanish territory.

It is the latest move in the deepening diplomatic dispute between Madrid and Rabat and the worst spat between the two countries in almost a decade.

“From seven in the morning until Sunday evening, fish, vegetables or others products and trucks will not enter in Melilla,” explained Said Chramti, President of the Association of Human Rights in the Rif.

A month ago Morocco accused Spanish authorities of beating five people who were, they claim, trying to cross the border legally.

Attempts were made to settle the row when – in a rare move – King Juan Carlos called Morocco’s King Mohammed V1. Now the blockade has escalated tensions.

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